HEARTBURN ALERT:

Remember that heartburn mostly results...

November 16, 1998

HEARTBURN ALERT: Remember that heartburn mostly results from what happens at the lower end of the esophagus, or gullet, where it joins the stomach. A circular muscle, known as the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), is supposed to close snugly after food and drink pass into the stomach.

WHAT CAUSES IT: With improper closure, some stomach acid can reflux, or move back up, to the esophagus, producing burning discomfort. It helps to minimize intake of certain foods that tend to unduly relax the LES. Among them are alcohol, garlic, onion, chocolate, food containing derivatives of chocolate, fried foods and fatty meats.

HOW TO EASE IT: Avoid lying down soon after a meal. It can take several hours for the stomach to empty its contents into the intestine. Once that happens, regurgitation -- and heartburn -- are less likely. Also, avoid eating near bedtime -- for the same reason. In addition, avoid bending over soon after meals; that can facilitate flow of stomach contents back up into the esophagus.